Treasurer's Report, through August:
Operating Budget Shows Year's First Surplus

     The last two months have given us the boost we needed. For the first time all year we have a slight surplus in our operating budget (see box, right). There are several things I want to say about that:
     First, we began the year with very little money as operating reserve (savings). That is not good. St. Bede's needs a cash cushion for bad times and unexpected expenses. With good stewardship for the rest of the year, there is a good chance that we will be able to improve our operating reserve.
     Second, we do not operate on the old principle that if you don't spend all your budget you will lose the difference next year. The Vestry will vote on its budget for 2008 on Monday, September 24, well before the end of the year figures are complete. St. Bede's has continuing needs for building repairs and enhancement beyond what we have been able to budget for – as well as other needs. So the message to all staff and program coordinators is: do not spend money unnecessarily in order to retain your budget.
     Third, we should rejoice in one another's faithfulness in financial matters this year. As I have noted several times, this calendar year we have had to absorb several good sized increases in the cost of running this church – more than many congregations would have been able to accomplish.
     Let's continue our excellent record of stewardship at St. Bede's – it is always a wonderful thing to do when we can provide for the coming year a church that is healthier financially than the year before. This is, after all, our own family home.

Thomas B. Woodward
Treasurer

Saint Bede's Financial Summary
Through August, 2007

                      August            Year to Date
                                        Actual        Budget
Income         40,105    279,800    282,306
Expenses      30,650    275,792    281,160
Difference       9,455        4,008         1,146

Income Detail
Pledge         37,395    241,174    240,000*
Plate              2,348      26,234      32,000 *

* Pro rated

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© 2007 St. Bede’s Episcopal Church, Santa Fe, New Mexico